AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS: SANDUSKY CHAPTER

FROM OUR DEAN FOR SUMMER 2011

2011-08-25T11:57:00.000-04:00

Our Summer Newsletter is, with the exception of the (tentative) schedule below, devoted entirely to a list of recommended Choral Selections for the Fall/Winter Seasons. In view of today’s downsized choirs, a generous balance of 2 and 3 part selections are included. As always, print status and price can not be guaranteed. The Fall Newsletter will stress organ repertoire. All AMSI Publications are available from Lorenz Industries on a uniprint basis.

TENATIVE PROGRAM FOR 2011-2012

2011-08-25T11:55:00.000-04:00

Sunday, October 9, 3:00 pm, Grace Episcopal Church, Sandusky: Chapter Organ Recital

Progam TBA for February or March. Still in the planning stage.

Sunday, May 6 (Time TBA), Zion Lutheran Church, Sandusky: Hymn Festival with May Schwartz.

DEANS LIST: FALL & WINTER

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ALL SAINTS:
“Onward Ye Saints” – Robert Wetzler (SATB, Organ) (AMSI/Lorenz Ind). A noble and dignified melody, unison first stanza, SATB second stanza , third stanza in unison with an SATB conclusion. Easy to learn and a practical addition to any choral library.

“God A Dwelling Shall Prepare” (a choral adaptation of a melody from “Jephtha”) – G. F. Handel / arr. by Henry Kihlken with an original new text (SA[TB], organ) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-42378). Your tenors need not be left out in this one as both TB ranges are compatible.

“Jewels” – music by George F. Boot (1820-1895) / text by William O. Cushing (1828-1902) / arr. by Henry Kihlken (SA or 2 part mixed, keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-41388). Simple, melodious, and direct. Easy to prepare and sing/ Also suitable for Advent as the first line “When He cometh to make you His Jewels” would indicate.

THANKSGIVING:
“With Joyful Heart and Voice” (from “24 Canons”)- by Luigi Cherubini (1760-1842) / realized and arr. by Henry Kihlken (Canon for 3 voices, any combination and keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-42380). Not difficult but requires careful attention.

“Now Thank We All Our God” (from “A Psalm of Thanksgiving) – Randal Thompson (SATB with piano reduction) (E. C. Schirmer No. 2746). Neo Baroque setting of the Johann Cruger chorale. Choral parts are in simple chorale style; accompaniment requires practice and preparation.

ADVENT:
“Wake, Awake For Night is Flying” (“Wachet auf”) – arr. by Carl F. Meuller (SATB with unison youth choir or soloists) (Carl Fischer CM7640). Parts intended for the youth choir may be sung in unison by the main choir; includes descant parts for soprano or tenor. Requires a large number of voices but is not difficult. Very majestic, and suitable for a Community Choral Festival or a Christmas Concert.

“Advent Carol” – Dale Wood (SATB with organ) (AMSI/Lorenz Ind, No. 119). Melody in Sacred Harp modal style. Very characteristic of this composer. Easy – Medium requirements.

“Awake and Be Watchful” (from the “Christmas Oratorio”) – J. S. Bach / arr. by Richard Simonds (SAB, keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-41708). A choral arrangement of the Alto aria “Prepare Thyself, Zion.” Easy – Medium requirements.

“A Tiny Child Will Come” – Don Besig (SATB, keyboard) (Harold Flammer A-6196). No, I haven’t been out in the sun too long. This is a very lovely, melodic piece; the Besig pot is definitely not boiling over in this one. Modal harmony. Easy.

“Now Behold Emmanuel” – Henry Kihlken (SA, keyboard) (Celebrations Unlimited CU 185). Based on the ancient plainsong “Ecce Nomen Domine.” Recommended for the last Sunday in Advent. Easy.

CHRISTMAS:
“How Far is it to Bethlehem” – Geoffrey Shaw (SATB) (Novello and Co., LTD 29 031005). Preferably unaccompanied (good luck with that one), however, a reduction of the voice parts is included in the score. A choral classic. Medium requirements.

“Noel, Noel, a Boy is Born” – Natalie Sleeth (2 part – any combination, organ and optional handbells) (AMSI/Lorenz Industries No. 223). A delightful piece in Carol style. Easy. The composer of “Jazz Gloria” in a very traditional vein.

“Angels With Their Joyful Tidings” (Polish Carol) – arr. by Walter Ehret (2-part any combination, piano, optional flute) (Walton Music/Hal Leonard W2309). Light and graceful. “Gloria in Excelsis” refrain. Easy/Medium requirements.

“When Christ Our Lord Was Born” (Italian Carol) – arr. by Walter Ehret (2-part any combination) (Celebrations Unlimited CU 198). A familiar carol which is rumored to have influenced Handel in certain sections of “The Messiah.” Easy.

“Gloria in Excelsis” (from “Missa Solemins” [1811]) – by Luigi Cherubini / arr. by Robert Ross (SATB with keyboard reduction) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-41427). An excellent way to introduce your choir to a major sacred choral work by a composer who deserves to be better known. This arrangement is greatly condensed from the original. Both Latin and English texts are underlaid. Medium to Difficult requirements.

“Gloria in Excelsis” – Antonio Lotti (1667-1740) (SATB, keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-42160). Less difficult than the forgoing; an interesting addition to the “Gloria” repertoire. Medium requirements.

“Christ Jesus is Born” (Brazillian Folk Tune) – arr, by Robert J. Powell (SATB, keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-41260). Familiar Folk Tune, found in WOV with a different text. Easy/Medium.

“O Holy Jesus, Little Child” (Mexican Carol) – arr. by Robert Powell (SATB, keyboard) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 392-42161). Easy, delightful Hispanic Carol.

“In Dulci Jubilo” – Dietrich Buxtehude / arr. by Theron Kirk (2-part any combination, keyboard, optional 2 flutes) (Coronet Press/Theodore Presser 892-42147). An abridgement of a much longer setting; the melody line is ornamented but not difficult. Medium requirements.

“Hymn-Anthem on ‘Adeste Fidelis’” – Everett Titcomb (SATB, organ) (C. F. Peters 6399). Solo sections which can be sung in sectional unisons. Easy and Majestic setting.

EPIPAHNY:
“We Have Seen His Star” (from “8 Short Motets for Mixed Voices”)– Everett Titcomb (SATB) (Carl Fischer CM438). While this piece is preferably unaccompanied, the score does include a keyboard reduction. Easy motet, contrapuntal lines. A good way to introduce your choir to a linear style of choral writing. Masterful writing, not difficult at all, but requires care and attention.

“Say, Where is He Born” (from the unfinished Oratorio “Christus” – Felix Mendelssohn / ed. By Walter Ehret (SATB, piano) (Theodore Presser 312-41393). Requires some adjustment to be played on the organ. Easy / Medium.

OPEN ORGANISTS POSITION

2011-08-15T09:31:00.002-04:00

Play everyother Sunday (one of 2 organists is retiring)
Allen Electronic Organ - AGO Standards
St. Peter Lutheran Church, Norwalk, Ohio
Evangelical Lutheran Worship: Settings 1, 3, 4
Service Times: 8:00 & 10:30 am
Choirs at both services
Weekly rehearsal with 8:00 choir (Wed., 5:30)

Contact: Pastor Fred Wiechers 419-668-2856

POSITION OPEN

2011-07-15T11:13:00.001-04:00

Organist & Choir position open at St. Stephen UCC in Sandusky, Ohio. For more information please call the church office at 419-626-1612 Ext. 101.

CHAPTER DUES ARE NOW DUE

2011-06-20T20:33:00.001-04:00

Chapter dues were due for the 2011-2012 year on June 30. Regular - $70.00 / Special - $52.50 (age 65 or over) / Student - $39.00 / Partner - $45.00 (second member of same household. No magazine for second member.) / Chapter Friend - $15.00.

If you have not yet done so, please mail your dues ASAP to Charles Scroggy, 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870.

SMALL CHURCH ORGAN FOR SALE

2011-05-19T11:44:00.001-04:00

"Pipe Organ in good working condition. It has four ranks and fits in a small place. The pipes and chests could be used with your existing instrument. Detailed description available. Contact Joanna Pretz-Anderson at Christ the Redeemer, Brecksville by email at jpretzanderson@crlcbrecksville.org or call 440-526-2303."

UPCOMING EVENT

2011-05-19T11:28:00.000-04:00

Sunday, May 22, 7:30 PM: “29th Annual Spring Concert” St. Mary’s Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky (419-625-7465). The St. Mary’s Parish Choir will join forces with Zion Lutheran Church Senior Choir to perform Thompson’s “Alleluia, and Rutter’s “Gloria.” For more information, visit St. Mary’s Music Ministry website,
http://stmarysmusicministry.blogspot.com/

Sunday, June 12, 3:00 PM: Sandusky Chapter AGO program “organ repertoire sharing,” at Holy Angels Church, 1605 W. Jefferson St., Sandusky, Oh. This was the event that was snowed out this past February.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR MAY / JUNE 2011

2011-05-19T11:27:00.002-04:00

“Robert Elmore (1913-1985) A Personal Reminiscence”

In the oversight department, the March issue of TAO, pg. 33, notes the premiere performance of the Concerto in C Minor for Organ and Orchestra by Robert Elmore. I refer you to the March issue for all details. Appended to this newsletter is a copy of an article by Pauline Fox (from May 1994 TAO), a student of Dr. Elmore reporting the deposit of the Robert Elmore Collection in the archives and records center of the University of Pennsylvania. It is from this collection, without any doubt, that the score and parts for this Organ Concerto was retrieved.

I was introduced to Dr. Elmore in the Spring of 1974 by one of his organ students whom he taught in his private studio, and who had used some of my organ and choral selections in her Church Service Repertoire.

Having been shown examples of my work, both published and in manuscript, Dr. Elmore expressed a desire to meet me. Our conference took place on a warm afternoon in May at his home in Wayne, PA, on Philadelphia’s Main Line and occupied the greater part of the afternoon.

Dr. Elmore read through numerous organ, choral, and solo vocal selections, both sacred and secular, offering helpful and thoughtful critiques along the way. He seemed particularly interested in my arrangement of “In Thee Is Gladness” for SATB Chorus accompanied by Brass Quartet, subsequently published by Walter Gould in his Music 70 Series (an adjunct to the Lawson-Gould Music Publishers) and my SATB a cappella composition “Wide Open Are Thy Hands” which has not made print, due, no doubt, to the many enharmonic changes, difficult intonation, and chromatic voice leading which abounds in this works; Dr. Elmore took specific note of these aspects of the piece, making reference to them in a very analytic way.

It was during the 1970’s that Dr. Elmore was Organist/Choirmaster of the historic 10th Presbyterian Church, 17th and Spruce Sts. in Philadelphia, PA. Numerous visits to Philadelphia during this period provided many opportunities to attend the 7:00 PM Sunday Evening Services, enjoy “after the Service” conversation, listen to his 70 voice choir, and learn much regarding organ technique from listening to his always virtuoso performances.

10th Presbyterian was, at the time, the point of origin of the Radio Program “The Bible Study Hour,” featuring the Church’s Pastor, the Rev. Dr. James Montgomery Boice. An amusing incident occurred after one of the services when a parishoner approached me, in a reasonably friendly way, inquiring as to why I had been attending the Evening Services. I responded, “Why to hear Dr. Elmore play the organ and direct his choir.” The somewhat taken aback look I received indicate to me that this was not the expected or desired response, in view of the illustrious occupant of the pulpit.

It would hardly be accurate if I did not declare that Dr. Robert Elmore was one of the major influences on my own musical development and professional life.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Note: A commentary on Hugo Distler and his student Jan Bender will appear in the June/July Newsletter. There will be no August Newsletter. The Newsletter will resume on a bi-monthly basis in September 2011.

DEAN'S LIST - FOR SUMMER

2011-05-19T11:24:00.001-04:00

VOCAL SOLOS: Suggested resources for Summer Music suitable for vocal students at the Senior High or College level, assuming some extent of musical skill.

1. “THE CHURCH SOLOIST”

2. “SOLOS FOR THE CHURCH YEAR”
Both collections edited and compiled by Lloyd Pfautsch, published by Lawson Gouldy Hal Leonard. Solos by classic masters of average requirements, includes easy selections by C. P. E. Bach and Josef Haydn.

3. “TO GOD WILL I SING” – VOCAL SOLOS FOR THE CHURCH YEAR” compiled by Susan Palo Cherwien, Augsburg/Fortress. A wide ranging collection of classic and contemporary works. Composers range from Rameau, Bach, Telemann, et al to Cherwien, David N. Johnson, Ronald Nelson, and others. The mystery piece is a “Vocalise” by Gabriel Faure. If you don’t have a coloratura soprano available, this makes a great flute selection. Some instrumental obbligato parts are available.

4. “SING A SONG OF JOY” – collected and edited by K. Lee Scott, Augsburg/Fortress. Includes original songs by K. Lee Scott as well as reasonably easy offerings by Schubert, Bach, Handel and traditional folk tunes. Less difficult than the forgoing.

5. “SUFFER THE LITTLE CHILDREN” – Four songs for unison choir or medium/low solo voice. Edward V. Bonnemere – Augsburg/Fortress. Gospel style, of excellent quality.

6. “GLORIA DEO: BOOK 2” – Compiled and arranged by David N. Johnson – Augsburg/Fortress. SAB voicing, many selections suitable as solos. Ideal for small summer ensembles. Included are many folk-song arrangements.

Note: Print status is not guaranteed.

EASY ORGAN FOR SUMMER SERVICES:

1. “THE TWO STAFF ORGAN BOOK, VOL. 1” Easy selections by A. W. Leupold, Telemann, Walther, Frescobaldi and others.
1. (a) “THE TWO STAFF ORGAN BOOK, VOL. 2” Easy selections by A. W. Leupold, Pre-war organist of the Petrikirche in Berlin, Germany. Compiled by Ulrich S. Leuold, Waterloo Music, Ontario, Canada. Represented in the USA by Cathedral Music Press, Mel Bay Music, PO Box 66, Pacific, No. 63069

2. “BLUE CLOUD ABBEY ORGAN BOOK” – Christopher Uehlein, Augsburg/Fortress. Fifteen original compositions somewhat reminiscent of Flor Peeters “60 Short Pieces;” modal, mildly contemporary, A convenient collection with Preludes, Offertories and Postludes under one cover.

3. “TWENTY SIX MINIATURES FOR ORGAN ON GREGORIAN THEMES” by Sr. Theresine Donder, SNJM, Oregon Catholic Press. Excellent for Communion Music, or short Preludes, Offertories, and Postludes.

4. “42 PIECES BY THEODORE DUBOIS” – Dr. J. Butz Musikverlag. All on two staves – may be played manuals only, pedal ad. Lib. French Romantic style, very melodic. An excellent resource for Summer Services.

FOR PIANO:
1. “COME, THOU FOUNT” – J. Bert Carlson, Augsburg/Fortress. A widely varied collection of piano solos, mainly in Gospel style. A few might workn on the organ, but mainly a resource for piano. Some of the tunes treated are “Nettleton,” “His Eye Is On the Sparrow,” “It is Well With My Soul,” “My Jesus,” “I Love Thee,” etc.

Note: Print status is not guaranteed.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR FEBRUARY/MARCH 2011

2011-03-01T11:55:00.000-05:00

It should come as no surprise to those of us living on Ohio’s North Coast that weather rules the day, and will make the final determination if an event will take place or be cancelled. Re-scheduling of the organ repertoire sharing event which had been scheduled for February 6th at Holy Angels Catholic Church is set for Sunday, June 12 at 3:00.

Of particular disinterest in the February TAO is “The Last Page” (to me, at least); I admit I had to “throw in the towel” on it.

Of exceptional interest, however, is the pg. 50 article regarding the Aeoline Organ installed at Longwood Gardens, the DuPont estate near Philadelphia. While I have visited Longwood Gardens several times I was never on hand to hear the organ played.

In the January 2011 installment of the Chapter Newsletter attention was focused on a new G. Schirmer publication “Samuel Barber, Music for Organ” released in June 2010, which the reviewer alleged to contain all the organ works of this composer (it does not, as I pointed out in that newsletter).

Of great interest in this collection is a composition by the 15 year old Samuel Barber titled “To Longwood Gardens,” premiered by Firmin Swinnen (pictured in TAO next to the console of the Longwood Organ) in 1925. Dedicated to Mr. and Mrs. Pierre S. DuPont in gratitude for the many musical experiences they provided him at their Estate, this piece is an example of the descriptive nature painting so in favor with composers for
the organ in the early 20th century. Hardly a work of the mature Barber (In a Persian Garden by Ketelby comes to mind) it is fascinating to encounter the influences Barber was confronted with as a very young man and to follow his development forward.

Also included is William Stickland’s approved-by-the-composer arrangement of the “Adagio for Strings,” rather dull “Chorale for a New Organ,” “Chorale Prelude on Silent Night,” arranged by the composer from his orchestral suite “Die Natali” (if your instrument does not include a very ethereal string celeste, don’t even try), a Prelude and Fugue very reminiscent of Max Reger, (late Romantic in style and highly chromatic), “Suite for Carillon,” which is highly unsuitable for the organ, and Barber’s one true masterpiece for the organ, “Wondrous Love: Variations on a Shape Note Hymn,” the latter being commissioned by Richard Rockelein, organist of Christ Episcopal Church in Grosse Point, Michigan, to whom the work is dedicated and who premiered it at that church in October, 1958.

Shame on the AGO for not commissioning a set of Chorale Preludes from Samuel Barber during his lifetime; what an asset to the repertoire has been lost as a result of that neglect.

Henry Kihlken,
Dean

HYMN FESTIVAL

2011-03-01T11:54:00.000-05:00

The Hymn Festival that was scheduled for this season has been post-poned to next season (late April) with May Schwartz coming from Trinity Lutheran Seminary to play the Festival. Look for more information later this fall.

UPCOMING EVENT

2011-03-01T11:53:00.001-05:00

On Sunday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m., Terra presents its annual “Organ and Brass Concert.” Celebrating the powerful repertoire composed for brass and organ, the Terra Brass Choir meets once again with organist Tim Claubaugh in a performance of both classical and contemporary music. The Terra Arts Chorale will also be performing in this concert.

Brass and organ works by Campra, Faure, Berlioz, Snyder and Peloquin will be performed. Among the solo organ works that Claubaugh will perform is "Prelude, Trio, and Finale on 'Holy God We Praise Thy Name'" by our own Sandusky Chapter member Henry Kihlken.

The concert will be presented at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sandusky. Admission is free and open to the public.

OPEN POSITION

2011-03-01T11:52:00.000-05:00

Grace Lutheran Church in Castalia is searching for a new Choir Director, ideally with some organist/piano experience and an Organist. If interested, contact Toni Borchardt, Search Committee, Grace Lutheran Church, 419-684-9042

FROM OUR DEAN FOR JANUARY 2011

2011-01-25T15:53:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year. This letter will be brief to accommodate a lengthy “Dean’s List” of recommended Lent and Easter music.

Of particular note in the January TAO, pg. 58 is the article marking the centennial of Jehan Alain (see organ section of the “Dean’s List”).

Also of interest, on pg. 78 under “Reviews” see the entry “Samuel Barber Music for Organ, The Complete Organ Works.” I would refer the reviewer to Barbara Heyman’s excellent 1992 biography of Barber, “Samuel Barber: The Composer and His Music” (Oxford University Press, N.Y.) in particular the extensive work’s list which lists all published and unpublished works of Barber. Missing from this collection are Three Chorale Preludes and Partitas, Ca. 1927, as well as 2 and 3 voice Fugues, Ca. 1927, contemporary with the Prelude and Fugue which is included, a very serious omission by the publisher advertising a “complete edition.”

Heyman’s biography, recipient of an ASCAP award, is highly recommended as an addition to the bookshelf of any musician; the Schirmer publication, however, incomplete, provides insight into the development of this important American composer.

Your Dean,
Henry Kihlken

OUR NEXT PROGRAM

2011-01-25T15:51:00.001-05:00

Sunday, February 6, 2:00 at Holy Angels Church, 428 Tiffin Ave., Sandusky. Please note this program begins at 2:00 instead of our usual 3:00 start time. We need to be out of the church by 4:00 because of musicians warming up and Mass set up for the 5:00 Mass. Bring 2-3 organ pieces to share and play for the group on this 2 manual / 9-stop Carl Barckhoff tracker organ.

The stop list is:
SWELL: Salicional 8, Rohr Flute 8, Flute Harmonic 4, Tremolo.
GREAT: Open Diapason 8, Dulciana 8, Melodia 8, Principal 4, Fifteenth 2.
PEDAL: Bourdon 16.
COUPLERS: Swell-Great, Swell-Pedal, Great-Pedal.

This organ was restored in 2010 by the Leek Pipe Organ Co. from Oberlin, OH.

UPCOMING EVENTS

2011-01-25T15:50:00.000-05:00

“Festival of Hymns and Anthems for the Liturgical Year” Sunday, February 13, 2011, 3:00 P.M. St. Joseph Cathedral, Columbus, OH. Featuring the Saint Mark’s Church Choir (Gary Garber, Director of Music), Saint Joseph Cathedral Choir (Paul Thornock, Director of Music), and the Cathedral Brass Ensemble. Suggested donation $10.00. For more information go to www.cathedralmusic.org.

“Silent Movie With Organ” featuring the movie “Ben Hur,” Sunday, March 27, 7:00 P.M. St. John Lutheran Church, 209 Southwest St., Bellevue. A free-will offering will probably be done.

THE DEAN'S LIST

2011-01-25T15:47:00.002-05:00

By Henry Kihlken

As noted in the November Newsletter, availability of recommended materials is not guaranteed. Consult with your music supplier or the internet to determine pricing and print status.

ORGAN:
1. “Lenten Preludes: 7 Select Hymns for Organ” By Robert Lau, Published by Harold Flammer (HF-5195). Easy/Medium. All preludes are based on standard Lenten Hymns, “In the Cross of Christ I Glory,” “Savior When in Dust to Thee (Spanish Chant),” When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (Hamburg),” etc. set in the warm, romantic style this composer is noted for.

2. “Preludes and a Partita on Great Hymns of the Church” by Robert Lau, published by Harold Flammer (HF-5185). Easy/Medium. Not strictly a Lenten collection, contents include “Let All Mortal Flesh keep Silence (Picardy),” “Land of Rest,” “Children of the Heavenly Father,” and a Partita on “Fairest Lord Jesus.”

3. “Lent Through Easter: 8 Seasonal Preludes for Organ” Compiled by Darwin Wolford, Published by Harold Flammer (HF-5192). Medium/Difficult. Of exceptional interest is “In Paradisum” by Jean Bouvard in memory of Maruice Durufle. Fantasy on “Christ the Lord is Risen” by Frederick Freeman and “Meditation on ‘O Deepest Woe’” by Joyce Jones are of interest.

4. “St Cecilia Collection: Music for Lent and Easter” Compiled by Dale Tucker, Published by H.W. Gray Publications. Easy/Challenging. Thirty selections previously published by the H.W. Gray Co. of New York. Outstanding are “Beautiful Savior” by David N. Johnson, “Requiem” by Everett Titcomb, as well as several Bach arrangements by E. Power Biggs. Marcel Dupre’s transcription of “In Paradisum” from the Faure Requiem is also included.

5. “Deux Chorals (Dorien-Phrygien)” by Jehan Alain, Collection Herelle, L. Phillip M. Combre. Medium/Difficult. An excellent introduction to this composer’s music. I have found the “Choral Dorien” to be an effective Offertory or Communion piece for Lent. Choral Phrygien is both technically and aurally more challenging.

6. “12 Liechte Choralvorwiel” By G. P. Telemann; Hermann Keller, Editor; Peter’s Edition (4239). Contains “O Lamb of God Most Holy, Our Father in Heaven,” “O Sacred Head Now Wounded,” Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands,” and others. On 2 staves of varying difficulty. No Lutheran organist should be without it (or any other organist).

7. “A Little Chaconne on a Lenten Hymn” by James Engel; Morning Star Music Publication (MSM 10-305). Based on the tune “Stricken, Smitten and Afflicted” which was at one time in wide use in Lutheran Hymnals. This “Chaconne” (an ancient dance form founded upon a recurring and constant rhythmic pattern) makes a lovely Prelude for any Lenten Service. Of medium difficulty.

8. “Nine Easy Chorale Preludes for Lent” by James Engle, Morning Star Music (MSM 10-316). I would hedge at the designation “easy;” there is much useful material here. All, except two, are based upon Lutheran Chorales. The two “outsiders” are “Southwell” and “Winchester New.” Easy/Medium.

CHORAL:
1. “It is the Child” by Garry Cornell; Celebrations Unlimited (CU504); SATB; keyboard with optional C Instrument. While this could work for Lent, it is more appropriate for late Epiphany leading into Lent – the transitional Gesima Sundays under the old Liturgical Calendar. Very Beautiful. Part of the Christ Carnival Series created with the late Herbert Brokering. Of average requirements.

2. “Behold the Lamb of God” by Samuel Sebastian Wesley (1810-1876), arr. By Henry Kihlken; Coronte Press (392-41836); Text by Matthew Bridges (1848); tune “Wigan” from the “European Psalmist” ca, 1872; SATB with organ. For Holy Week, Passion/Palm Sunday or Good Friday. Not difficult, but dramatic requiring careful attention to dynamics and expression, ranging from pp to FF.

3. “Green the Weeping Willow Tree” by Robert Graham; 2 part mixed with flute, piano or organ; Lorenz Corp (AMSI 179) administrator and sole selling agent. Although directions are given in the score for performance without flute, this should never be performed without flute. Excellent also as a duet or solo. Easy, with a memorable melody, but requires sensitivity and expression.

4. “Savior to Your Passion Go” by Robert Wetzler (AMSI 497) SATB with organ; Passion/Palm Sunday. A real find, as this anthem provides an opportunity to present an unfamiliar and unhackneyed Palm Sunday text. Dignified and stately. Easy/Medium.

Note: AMSI publications are available as an uniprint reproduction from the Lorenz Corporation, 501 E. 3rd St., Dayton, OH 45401-0802.

5. “We Will Carol Joyfully” by Robert Wetzler (AMSI376); SATB with echo group. Delightful and melodic setting of an Old English Carol text. Echo effects throughout. The echoes could be sung by a youth group; a good opportunity to involve them with the Senior Choir. Not difficult at all.

6. “He Has Risen” by Sharon Elery Rogers. SATB with keyboard; Coronet Press (392-41992). A quodlibet of 2 contrasting hymn tunes :Llanfair” by Robert Williams and “Hollingside” by John B. Dykes. Very effective, with a soaring descant and big conclusion. Of medium difficulty, requiring a large enough soprano section to accommodate the descant.

7. “The Day of Resurrection (French Carol)” arr. by Henry Kihlken; Coronet Press (392-41905); SATB with keyboard and optional trumpet. A festive setting of a familiar French Carol Melody, used by Willian in the collection “Carols of the Seasons.” Some of you might be familiar with the 1948 arrangement by Carl Halter. Exploits imitation on the phrase “He is Risen,” with separate entries of the voices at various points. Medium/Difficult.

A Musical Masterpiece: Rebirth of the Stambaugh Skinner Organ

2010-12-08T11:27:00.001-05:00

A Musical Masterpiece: Rebirth of the Stambaugh Skinner Organ

This article is from WYTV, Channel 33 out of Youngstown/Akron Area. The article contains an audio of the organ as well as a slide show.

http://www.wytv.com/content/news/local/story/A-Musical-Masterpiece-Rebirth-of-the-Stambaugh/-f8PKQnYCk23ww8oPiWiQw.cspx

FROM OUR DEAN FOR DECEMBER 2010

2010-12-07T11:46:00.001-05:00

HOLIDAY GREETINGS FROM THE DEAN! ! May the birth of Christ fill each of you with much peace and joy. A Blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year to all.

What to watch for in the future with regard to “The Dean’s List”:

JANUARY: Lent, Easter Choral, Organ and Instrumental music.

MARCH: Music for Summer: Voicings for small groups and ensembles, music for organ and instruments, easy organ music.

MAY: General Choral and Organ Repertorie.

Your Dean.
Henry Kihlken

New Release about Handel's Messiah from Eerdmans

2010-12-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

I would like to bring your attention to a new book we have published about Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s Messiah: Comfort For God’s People by Calvin R. Stapert (978-0-8028-6587-8/ $14.99 pb).

If you want to enjoy and appreciate Handel’s beloved Messiah more deeply, this informed yet accessible guide is the book to read.

This book offers a deeper, richer understanding of a beloved musical masterpiece. Stapert provides fascinating historical background, tracing not only Messiah’s unlikely inception but also its amazing reception throughout history. The bulk of the book offers scene-by-scene musical and theological commentary on the whole work, focusing on the way Handel’s music beautifully interprets and illuminates the biblical text.

Click on the cover image for more information. Handel’s Messiah is available for purchase at www.erdmans.com.

Feel free to contact me for more information.

Franklin L. Goldberg
Inside Sales
Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
2140 Oak Industrial Dr NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Tel: 800-253-7521 x511
Fax: 616.776.7621
fgoldberg@eerdmans.com

ORGANLIVE MAKES IT EASY TO EXPERIENCE THE MUSIC FOR THE ORGAN

2010-12-06T11:52:00.000-05:00

Organlive.com is an Internet audio station dedicated to the music of the classical organ. Broadcasting since 2003, Organlive has become the most-heard organ station on the Internet. The broadcast is completely free to anyone with a broadband Internet connection and is now easier than ever to tune in. Listeners simpy need one click at www.organlive.com to hear the broadcast through Windows Media Player, WinAmp, iTunes, Quicktime, RealPlayer, or any streaming MP3 player. Additionally the stream may be heard on most mobile devices such as the iPhone or Android based phones. The station is also listed in the classical radio stations on iTunes.

A new website makes it easier to search the the ever-growing library of organ music, which currently holds over 10,000 tracks from more than 850 albums of music recorded by organists all over the world. Listeners can log in to rate tracks and albums as well as leave comments on the same. Organlive plays albums recorded on pipe, digital, and combination organs played by the world’s best concert organists, as well as tracks recorded and submitted by less renowned organists. Included are pairings of organ and orchestra, solo instruments, choir, or vocal solos. The listener is presented with the work title, composer, album title, a link to purchase the album or MP3 online, the organ, it’s builder, size, and location, and a link to the specification of the organ being heard, and often a link to public domain copy of the sheet music of the work.

Listeners may browse the entire library searching by work, composer, organist, album, or organ and request tracks to be played. On Sundays the station features hymns, choral anthems, and music of the church. Monday's playlist consists of music from the 19th and 20th centuries. Wednesdays are all-baroque music, and Fridays feature the best music from our library, as rated by the listeners.

The station has been continually funded by the listeners, and an annual budget covering all operating expenses is raised every spring. Organlive is always accepting submissions for new music from organists, composers, and publishers. To listen to Organlive, or for more information on submitting your music, visit www.organlive.com.

CONTACT: Brent Johnson, Organlive.com 314-496-1278
comments@organlive.com http://www.organlive.com

FROM OUR DEAN FOR NOVEMBER 2010

2010-11-23T09:47:00.000-05:00

Our first meeting of the season, an Anthem Reading Session, took place October 10th at the Huron Prebyterian Church with seven members in attendance.

Our next meeting will be Sunday, February 6, 2011 at 2:00 for an organ music reading session at Holy Angels Church (1605 W. Jefferson St, Sandusky) on their newly restored organ. We have the church from 2:00-4:00 at which time another group comes in to get ready for their Mass and program.

Work has begun on the directory “AGO Members Today,” which will be the first AGO Directory to feature both photos and contact information of our national membership. If you wish to be included call the toll free number 1-800-347-7562 on the yellow card each of you should have received.

Reading the account of the AGO National Convention in Washington, D.C. caused me to think of program possibilities for the future. A Taize Service, and a Bach Vespers (pg. 62) are certainly possibilities for advertised and promoted public events. If our Chapter is to survive, such public events are essential.

Reading “The Last Page” is a reminder that strife between pulpit and Choir/Organ Loft is an ancient, if regrettable art, long pre-dating guitar services and the introduction of pop and contemporary styles into our Worship Services.

As serious work begins on our loaded Autumn/Winter Music Schedule, I wish each of you great success in fulfilling your seasonal and Holiday projects.

A new feature to assist our membership in music preparation and planning, called “The Dean’s List” is being introduced with this installment. This list will consist primarily of suggested organ and choral music which has come to your Dean’s attention, to be included in our Chapter Newsletter every other issue. While this list might prove late for Advent – Christmas – Epiphany Season this time it might be helpful for some last minute planning.

As prices are subject to change without notice, these have not been included, but may be obtained on the internet, directly from the publisher, or from your favorite music dealer.

Your Dean,
Henry Kihlken

DEANS LIST

2010-11-23T09:45:00.001-05:00

ORGAN:
Bach: “Ausgewahlte Werke Fur Kleinorgel” complied and edited by Hermann Keller (Edition Peters No. 4510). This is the same editor who compiled “80 Chorale Preludes by German masters of the 17th and 18th Centuries,” and is just as useful, perhaps more so, since most if not all of the selectionas are playable on manuals only.

Bach: “J. S. Bach: An Album for Manuals Only” edited by Lionel Lethbridge (Oxford Organ Music, Oxford University Press). A good companion to the previous volume mentioned as it contains only two duplications.

Willan/ Ed Gerike: “Organ Works of Healey Willan,” (Concordia No. 97 – 6676U1). This volume contains, under one cover, all the Hymn and Chorale Preludes by Willan ever published by Concordia Publishing house. All previous editions have been discontinued. These works were commissioned by the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod but are useful in all types of services.

Richard Proulx: “Preludes on Four Hymns” (Augsburg/ Fortress No. 11-10051). Contains all of the Hymn Preludes by Proulx pubished by Augsburg/ Fortress. Variations on the Purcell Tune WESTMINSTER ABBEY, was composed expressly for this volume. It makes a brilliant Festival Prelude and is ideal for Pre-Nuptial Prelude Music.

Paul Manz: “Three Hymn Settings for Organ” (Morning Star Music, No. MSM-10-522). Hymns in this volume are “When Long Before Time/The Singer and the Song,” “Beautiful Savior,” and “Who Trusts in God, a Sure Abode.” This volume should be in every organists library.

CHORAL:
“Most Highly Favored Lady, Basque Carol (Gabriel’s message)” arr. By Garry A. Cornell, Celebrations Unlimited No. CU 237. A little late for this Season, but hold the thought for next year. Delightful. SATB

“Keep Your Lamps” Spiritual arr/ Andre Thomas. Includes optinal parts for Conga Drums. Orff instruments could certainly be substituted in any varied combination. SATB. Hinshaw Music No. HMC577. Great for early Advent.

“Lord of All Hopefulness” Hymn-anthem based on SLANE, arr. By Healey Willan, C.F. Peters No. 6985, C. F. Peters Corp. SATB with organ. A lovely setting, unison passages alternation with SATB, melody alternates between parts on the last verse, men leading the way.

“Father, We Praise Thee” Hymn Anthem on the French Church Melody “Christe Sanctorum” arr. By Healey Willan, easy SATB on verse 1, Soprano unison on verse 2, full unison on verse 3 with an SATB “Amen.” C. F. Peters Corp., No 6125. Gorgeous. A favorite of the St. John Choir.

“Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones” A Hymn Anthem on LASST UNS EFREUEN arr. by Healey Willan, moderate SATB, alternating full with unison passages, full organ accompaniment, C. F. Peters Corp., No. 6238.

All listed Anthems are in the repertoire of St. John Lutheran Choir, Port Clinton.

SCHEDULE NOTE

2010-11-23T09:44:00.000-05:00

The Port Clinton Community Choir under the direction of Craig Dietterich and accompanied by Henry Kihlken will present large sections of Handel’s “Messiah” at St. John Lutheran Church, 207 Adams St., Port Clinton, at 3:00 PM Sunday, December 19, 2010.

DATE CHANGE

2010-09-27T14:53:00.002-04:00

Our program on "Anthem Reading" which was scheduled for Sunday, November 14 HAS BEEN CHANGED TO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 3:00 P.M.

We will still meet at the Huron Presbyterian Church, 225 Williams St. in Huron. Bring one to three of your favorite choir anthems to share with everyone. Please bring 10-15 copies of each anthem so everyone can use a copy during the reading session.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR SEPTEMBER 2010

2010-09-22T15:03:00.000-04:00

Greetings to all of you on this Labor Day Weekend. Our next program is Sunday, November 14, 2010, 3:00 p.m. when we will have an anthem Reading Session at the Huron Presbyterian Church. Bring one to three of your favorite choir anthems to share with everyone. Please bring 10-15 copies of each anthem so everyone can use a copy during the reading session.

I, for one, will not be sad to see this extremely torrid and exhausting summer draw to a close.

It is, however, time to plan Fall / Winter / Spring once more, as I note that our first choir rehearsal at St. Johns’ Lutheran Church occurred on September 9th.

There are some interesting points made in the September issue of TAO. I call your attention, in particular, first to the Correspondence page and the Second, I call attention to “The Last Page,” on page 96.

In over 50 years on the organ bench, my experience, even at their most discouraging, never mirrored those of Dale T. Stanton: conversely the exalted idealism expressed on “the Last Page: has never been fulfilled in my own experience.

The actual reality of the Church Music Condition rests now, as I believe it always has done, somewhere between these two polarities.

Also of great interest is the article on page 40 regarding the new Leupold Bach edition, which begs the question, “How many Bach editions are actually needed?”

The article on page 52, the new feature “Part Time Church Musician” certainly took me back in time at least 52 years.

I wish all of you a successful and rewarding new season.

Your Dean,
Henry B. Kihlken

FROM THE EDITOR

2010-08-15T15:17:00.000-04:00

As many of you will remember, our AGO email account was hacked into this past winter. That is why everyone is receiving this newsletter through regular mail this month. I have set up a new email account at agosandusky@gmail.com . If you could please email me with your email address so I can create a new address book with everyone’s email in it. Then I can email the newsletters and other notifications to you which will save our Chapter money in postage. Please do this ASAP. Thank you.

FROM THE NEW DEAN

2010-08-15T15:01:00.000-04:00

Greetings from your new Dean. A Tentative schedule has been set for the new season, with exact dates, times, and details to be finalized by the Planning Committee.

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The following schedule has been proposed, subject to change: November 14, 2010: Anthem Reading Session, Huron Presbyterian Church.

Late January or Early February: Organ Repertoire Sharing, Holy Angels RCC. The Tracker renovations should be completed at that time.

Late March or early April: Hymn Festival, St. Mary’s Church. “Hymns Based on the Psalms” will be the theme of the Festival. A Committee will select the Hymns and determine the format at it’s meeting set for the end of August. This committee consists of Randy Ruthsatz, Ron Borchardt, and Tim Claubaugh.
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Our Chapter has received excellent publicity in the July issue of TAO; on page 56 the J. S. Bach Recital, which was presented at three area churches on March 21, 2010, is reported in detail.

In closing, also in reference to J. S. Bach, this Dean encourages each Chapter Member to read the Chaplain’s column on page 16 of this issue. This needs little comment from me as it is a masterpiece.

It is the time of year when dues must be sent in to National Headquarters. Those of you who have not already done so, please mail your dues to Charles Scroggy at his home: 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870.

I am please once again (how many times has it been?) to serve this Chapter as Dean.

(signed)
Henry Kihlken
Dean

FROM THE OUT-GOING DEAN

2010-08-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

This will be my last letter to you as Dean of the Sandusky Chapter, AGO. Henry Kihlken has agreed to take my place, and I ask you to join me in expressing thanks for his willingness to serve. He has served as Dean previously, so he brings experience to the office. Randall Ruthsatz will take Henry’s place as Sub-Dean, while Louise Rogers continues as Secretary and Charles Scroggy as Treasurer. They deserve our support, so be ready to assist with Guild activities as you are asked.

Six Guild members met with me several weeks ago to plan some programs and activities for the 2010-2011 season. We hope to go to the First Presbyterian Church in Huron this fall for an anthem reading session. Bring your favorite anthems to share and listen to new anthems your choir would enjoy.

Early in 2011 we hope to have a comparable program of organ music. We expect this to be at Holy Angels Catholic Church in late January or early February.

We are asking a guest director to lead the community of church members in a hymn festival (not a massed choir festival). Narration and hymns will be based on the Psalms. Date and place will be announced later, and we have approached a guest director. Further information will come from Henry Kihlken.

Thank you for the support you have given me as Dean. Some good things lie before us as an AGO Chapter. Be an enthusiastic part of it!

(Signed)
Laura M. Stellhorn
Retiring Dean

FROM OUR DEAN FOR JULY 2010

2010-07-06T15:22:00.000-04:00

Charles Scroggy, our treasurer, reminds us that 2010-2011 AGO dues are past due. Several members have already sent him their dues. Several members still have outstanding dues. Regular membership is $70.00. Of that amount, $55.00 is sent to the national office, and $15.00 remains in our Chapter treasury. Special Memberships for those over 65 are $52.50. We keep $37.50 in our treasury, and pass $15.00 on to the national office. Charles’ address is: 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870. Please mail your dues promptly, payable to “Sandusky Chapter AGO” so Charles can take care of this important task.

If you have any program or chapter ideas for this coming year, contact me by July 26 so that we can incorporate them, If possible, into this coming season. We welcome any and all ideas that you may have.

In sorting out papers from a bulging filing cabinet, I found a page from the June 1999 AMERICAN ORGANIST titled, “A Survivor’s Manual for the Church Organist” by James Pethel. He admits some of his suggestions are silly and some serious, but you will recognize all of them contain an element of truth. Here is a sampling from the article:

It’s a good idea to hit the cancel piston before you get on or off
the bench.

Don’t walk on wet surfaces in your organ shoes on the way to the
organ.

Be careful getting onto a freshly waxed bench too quickly.

Learn to talk and play at the same time during the postlude.

When playing a hymn and you forget what stanza you are on,
watch the pastor’s eyes and hands. He will look away from the
hymn and start to close his hymnal on the last phrase.

If you accidentally make a sound during a silence, don’t react
at all. Look up at the chambers as if somebody in there did it.

And if you still have your copy of the 1999 AMERICAN ORGANIST, you can enjoy the rest of the suggestions.

Have a harmonious summer!

(signed)
Laura Stellhorn,
Dean

FROM OUR DEAN FOR MAY 2010

2010-05-12T15:21:00.000-04:00

Another AGO season is winding down, and this may be my last newsletter until fall. Here are a few items to share with you now:

Sunday, May 16, 7:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Choir will present their annual
spring concert under the direction of Tim Claubaugh. Various
instruments will add color to the vocal program. Admission is free.

Sunday, May 23, 3:00 p.m. The Community Choir will present their
spring program at St. John Lutheran Church in Port Clinton. Henry
Kihlken is organ accompanist.

As planned, I attended the meeting of Ohio AGO Chapter deans at the Bunn-Minnick Pipe Organ Co. in Columbus on April 24. Regional Councillor Paul Barte from Ohio University, Athens, OH was present and presided over the meeting.

He urged us to contact potential members personally and offer
them a warm, encouraging welcome.

Organists say their # 1 reason for joining AGO is to receive monthly
issues of THE AMERICAN ORGANIST.

Chapter deans reported many of the concerns we have regarding
meeting days and times that meet everyone’s schedule, and the
lack of member attendance at meetings.

The AGO has a national website, and there is no charge for using it.

Next year’s Regional Convention will be in Lexington, KY.

A minimum of $3 per member for the Annual Fund would cover
liability insurance costs.

St. John Lutheran Church (Union Corners) at Scheid Rd. and Rt. 250 is still looking for a permanent organist / choir director since Bill Scheid retired earlier this year. The congregation has a loyal choir of 12-15 members who rehearse Wednesday evenings. Sunday worship is at 10:30 a.m. If you now of someone who might fill this position, have them call Sandra Thompson at 419-433-4530.

Be thinking of program ideas for next season. What can we plan to be a help to you and / or an event for the community? I am open to any and all ideas.

Have a good summer. Continue your high standards of music during the summer months even though your schedule allows you to relax a bit.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR APRIL 2010

2010-04-13T15:00:00.000-04:00

I hope you, like I, are living in the afterglow of Bach’s birthday celebration on Sunday, March 21. Almost 200 people stayed with us in all three churches. I especially want to thank Jim Gardner, Henry Kihlken, Charles Scroggy, Randy Ruthsatz, and Tim Claubaugh for preparing and presenting their Bach music to an appreciative audience. Everywhere I have gone, people have told me how very much they enjoyed the afternoon. We may be a small AGO Chapter, but we have provided the community something of musical value and proved to ourselves there is reason to continue our existence.

The Lorain Co. Chapter has announced its annual student recital at Finney Chapel, Oberlin College, on Sunday, April 25, starting at 4:00 p.m. Several of our members have attended and enjoyed each progam. If you wish to stay for dinner at the Oberlin Inn, phone your reservation by Monday, April 19 to Marty Bruner at 440-322-9749. Dinner cost is $19, but the student recitals are free.

Nancy Russell, Ohio District Convener, has scheduled a meeting of Ohio Chapter Deans at the Bunn-Minnick Pipe Organ Co. in Columbus on Saturday, April 24. I expect to attend since I will already be in Columbus that weekend for alumni reunions at Capital University. If there is something significant to report, you will learn of it in our conversations or my next newsletter,

I pray continuing blessings to you as you lead God’s people in worship.

-Laura Stellhorn, Dean

UPCOMING EVENTS

2010-04-13T14:04:00.001-04:00

Be sure to check out our "Upcoming Events" to see what exciting events are coming our way in the Sandusky area.

FROM THE EDITOR - EMAIL CHANGE

2010-04-13T13:57:00.001-04:00

Due to a hacker hacking into our email account, I have had to change our email account to: agosandusky@gmail.com . I have not been able to delete the old account because the hacker changed the password on that account. If you receive any emails from the “YAHOO” account, delete them without opening them. Do NOT delete emails that come from the “GMAIL” account. You might want to “spam” the “YAHOO” account. If you decide to go the spaming route, please be sure that you spam “yahoo” and NOT “gmail.”

I apologize for this inconvenience. This is the second time within a year that our email account was hacked into. I hope changing providers will take care of this problem.

If you receive these newsletters by U. S. Postal Service, and you have email, you could save our chapter money by contacting Tim to have your newsletter sent by email for free instead of through the U. S. Postal Service. Please consider this option.

-Tim Claubaugh, Editor

BACH'S 325TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

2010-03-09T10:30:00.002-05:00

The Sandusky Chapter of the American Guild of Organists is celebrating the 325th birthday of Johann Sebastian Bach on Sunday, March 21, 2010 with a "Church Walk" type concert at 3 local churches. People may either walk or drive from church to church. First Congregational is one block from Emmanuel, and Sts. Peter and Paul is across the street from First Congregational. All five organists will perform organ works of J. S. Bach

The event begins at 3:00 at Emmanuel United Church of Christ, 334 Columbus Ave. Organists Jim Gardner and Henry Kihlken will perform.

At about 3:20 everyone will move to First Congregational UCC, 431 Columbus Ave., where organists Charles Scroggy and Randy Ruthsatz will perform.

At about 3:50, everyone will move to Sts. Peter and Paul, 510 Columbus Ave., where organist Tim Claubaugh will perform. A reception will follow afterwards in the gathering room at Sts. Peter & Paul.

This event is free and open to the public.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR MARCH 2010

2010-03-09T10:28:00.001-05:00

Sunday, March 21 is rapidly approaching as we carry out our plans to celebrate J. S. Bach’s 325th birthday. Details were in my last newsletter. Jim Gardner and Henry Kihlken, Charles Scroggy and Randy Ruthsatz, and Tim Claubaugh will be organists at Emmanuel UCC, First Congregational UCC, and Sts. Peter and Paul Churches in that order. Please publicize this afternoon concert which starts at 3:00 in your church leaflets at least one week in advance. The Sandusky Register has been notified of our plans, and I hope they give us good coverage. Please let me know if you and your congregation are participating. Perhaps if the list is long enough, the Register will be more willing to consider it a major story.

Have you thought about the tour of the Schantz Organ Co. on Saturday, March 20? We have an invitation from the Lorain Co. Chapter to join them on the tour, starting at 10:30 a.m. The group expects to eat together at the Dravenstott Restaurant in Orrville. Reservations are needed by phoning Bob Ebert at 440-353-3362 or emailing him at rebert@bw.edu by Monday, March 15. Can we car pool? Orrville is approximately 1 ½ hours driving time from Sandusky. You may also want a shopping trip to Smuckers Factory Store before leaving Orrville.

On the inside of the back cover of the March “AMERICAN ORGANIST” is a photo of the Schantz organ Richard Dundore played for 10 years at Second UCC in Tiffin. Richard is currently organist at First Presbyterian Church in Sandusky.

As Dean of the Sandusky Chapter I receive mailings which may be of interest to some of our members. I have received a “Handbook for Organ Teachers” and a catalog of his music from Wayne Leupold Editions. Mr. Leupold is also available to conduct 3 ½ hour workshops on teaching beginning keyboard to children and adults. Contact me if this information holds interest for you.

I’ll look for you at Emmanuel UCC at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, March 21st.

-Laura Stellhorn, Dean

MONTHLY UPDATES FOR MARCH 2010

2010-03-02T10:50:00.001-05:00

Website monthly updates for March include:

"This Month in Music History"

and

"Monthly Videos"

MONTHLY UPDATES FOR FEBRUARY 2010

2010-02-01T10:50:00.001-05:00

Website monthly updates for February include:

"This Month in Music History"

and

"Monthly Videos"

FROM OUR DEAN FOR JANUARY 2010

2010-01-21T18:50:00.000-05:00

There are many items of interest and news to pass along to you this month.

1) Are you making plans to use Bach organ and choir music at worship services on Bach’s 325th birthday March 21, 2010? We hope the Sandusky Register will give us good coverage, so let me know if you plan to participate.

2) That afternoon we continue Bach’s birthday celebration by inviting the public to join us for short Bach recitals in three Sandusky churches. Starting at 3:00 p.m. we meet at Emmanuel UCC where Jim Gardner and Henry Kihlken will be recitalists. Moving to First Congregational UCC at 3:30 we will listen to Bach music played by Charles Scroggy and Randy Ruthsatz. The third church will be Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church where John Frank and Tim Claubaugh will provide the final Bach numbers. A reception will follow there. The three churches are in close proximity to one another so walking and parking should pose no problems. Let your enthusiasm for Bach’s 325th birthday be contagious!

3) Backing up in time, the Toledo Chapter announces “Bach and the Dance” at St. Michael’s in the Hills Episcopal Church, Ottawa Hills, on Sunday, January 31, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. The publicity states that Trudy Faber, a Wittenberg University professor, will help us “examine Baroque dances, along with rhythms and accents J. S. Bach used in his composing.” The Toledo Chapter invites us to join them for “an afternoon of delightful music and historical retrospective on a fascinating topic.” Can we carpool to Toledo for this promising program? I have the address for the church.

4) The program for the Saturday, March 20, 2010 meeting of the Lorain Co. Chapter is a tour of the Schantz Organ Co. at Orrville, Ohio near Wooster. Here is a great opportunity to meet other AGO members and spend a profitable few hours learning more about the basics of our profession.

5) Palm Sunday evening at 7:00, March 28, 2010 St. John Lutheran Church, Bellevue, is showing the 1927 Cecil B. DeMille silent movie “King of Kings.” Of course, there is live organ music to accompany the film, and this will be provided by Charles Wilson, resident organist at the Ohio Theater. A freewill offering will be received. I await further information from Paul Lieber.

What a wealth of wonderful events lies ahead, and we will want to attend many or all of them. If you have questions that I can answer, don’t hesitate to phone.

I close with a quote I recently read: “The Bible is filled with examples of God’s people surviving through praise of God and singing. When Biblical truth and doctrine are set to music, they become emotional, memorable, teachable, and transformational. God – pleasing music in our sanctuaries – entering into our ears, minds and hearts – equips us to be armed and dangerous!”

(signed)
Laura M. Stellhorn, Dean

DOES YOUR CHURCH HAVE A MUSIC WEBSITE?

2010-01-21T18:40:00.000-05:00

If your church has a music website, let us know. We would like to list those in a future Newsletter and put a link up on our chapter website.

MONTHLY UPDATES FOR JANUARY 2010

2010-01-05T10:12:00.000-05:00

Website monthly updates for January include:

"This Month in Music History"

and

"Monthly Videos"

FROM OUR DEAN FOR DECEMBER 2009

2009-12-15T10:15:00.002-05:00

Advent and Christmas seasons are busy ones for church musicians. May I wish each of you a fulfilling, blessed season of preparation and celebration.

Are you planning your J. S. Bach music to celebrate his 325th birthday on Sunday, March 21, 2010? You will recall our Sandusky Chapter is hoping to immerse the area worship services in Bach’s music that day and enlist the cooperation of the Sandusky Register to publicize the event.

Last year we invited the community to enjoy organ music in three Sandusky churches, and many people came. We heard many favorable comments with the added statement, “I hope you do this again.” Soooo, after enjoying Bach music in the morning, we will continue his birthday celebration by visiting three Sandusky churches that afternoon and hearing two recitalists at each building play 20-minute programs. The three churches with six organists are already in place, with final detailed plans in my next letter. We trust you will be part of both phases of the celebration.

The December issue of “The American Organist” gave detailed plans for the national AGO convention in Washington, D.C. July 4-8, 2010. Are any of you planning to attend? A recent letter from Ronald Stolk, Convention Coordinator, told how our Chapter could advertise in the printed program ($350), sponsor a workshop ($400), and/or make a $259 donation toward an organ student’s registration fee and housing at a nearby university campus. Our limited treasury will not allow us to contribute toward any of these requests, but support from individuals would not be refused.

A reminder. Have you paid membership dues to our treasurer? Regular membership is $70. Members over age 65 pay only $52.50. Send your check to Charles Scroggy, 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870, payable to Sandusky Chapter AGO.

And lastly, here’s a bit of information of local interest. You may remember reading an article written by Albert Adcock in the November “The American Organist” about the Portagesville Chapel retreat. Some of you may know Albert grew up in Sandusky and was a member of Grace Episcopal Choir. Elmer Frank, my organ teacher, was Director of Music at Grace. In a recent exchange of letters, Albert told me that Elmer Frank offered him fifteen free organ lessons as a 15th birthday present. Before he had the 15th lessons, Mr. Frank died. Albert writes, “I have often wondered, but not lamented, how my life might have played out had he not passed away so suddenly.”

A Blessed Christmas Season to all our members as we lead our congregations to a Bethlehem manger to worship the newborn Savior and King.

Sincerely,
Laura Stellhorn,
Dean

STRESSFULL JOBS THAT PAY BADLY

2009-12-02T10:34:00.002-05:00

Who would have thought that a Music Minister Director's job would have been No. 5 on this list? Click below to view a portion of the article:
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2009/pf/0910/gallery.stressful_jobs/5.html

Click below to view the entire article:
http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/108148/stressful-jobs-that-pay-badly?mod=career-salary_negotiation

MONTHLY UPDATES FOR DECEMBER 2009

2009-12-01T14:56:00.000-05:00

Website monthly updates for December include:
"This Month in Music History"

and

"Monthly Videos"

MONTHLY UPDATES FOR NOVEMBER

2009-11-09T12:22:00.002-05:00

Website monthly updates for November include:

"This Month in Music History"

and

"Monthly Videos"

TWO UPCOMING ORGAN & BRASS CONCERTS

2009-10-26T11:27:00.003-04:00

There are 2 organ and brass concerts fast approaching!

The first is Sunday, November 1, 1:30 pm, at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, 510 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. The concert will feature John Franks on organ with the Boradale Brass. They will perform music of J. S. Bach, Benedetto Marcello, Samuel Barber and others. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

The second concert is Sunday, November 8, at 7:30 pm. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. Performers will be Tim Claubaugh, Organist, and the Terra State College Brass Choir. Works by J. S. Bach, William Walton, Andre Campra, Giovanni Gabrieli, Vaclav Nelhybel, Wilbur Held, and others will be performed. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR OCTOBER 2009

2009-10-05T15:41:00.002-04:00

Have you put the organ / trumpet concert on your calendar for Sunday, October 25, 2009? It is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Sandusky and is sponsored by the Sandusky Concert Association. You may have noticed the concert is listed on page 106 of the current issue of TAO. Tickets are $15 and are available by sending a stamped self-addressed envelope with your check to P.O. Box 1537, Sandusky, OH 44871, or purchase your tickets at the door that afternoon. (Editor's Note: You received either in the mail or by email an invitation to the reception after the concert with the persons name and phone number to call to put your name in for the reservation of the reception. If you did not receive an invitation, contact Tim Claubaugh at 419-625-7465 or email at agosandusky@yahoo.com ).

LOOKING AHEAD! Your program Committee looked way ahead and noted that Johann Sebastian Bach’s 325th birthday, March 21, falls on a Sunday in 2010. What better way for church musicians to honor his memory than by having all of us use Bach’s music for organ, solos and choir anthems that day. Not all of his music is technically difficult and we are giving you time to find and practice the music of this greatest of Christian composers. We hope to enlist the cooperation of ALL of our area churches and hopefully get good coverage in the “Sandusky Register.” As the time draws closer, let me know of your cooperation so we can list you as one of the participants.

Then to top off the day’s celebration we are planning an afternoon of 30-minute organ concerts at Holy Angels Catholic Church, First Congregational, UCC, and Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic church. Two organists will play organ solos at each church. Last year’s tour of three churches brought requests to “do it again,” so we are honoring those requests and doing it as part of Bach’s birthday celebration. The recitalists have been selected and will be announced in a future letter. I am excited about these plans and hope that you are too.

Welcome to our newest member, Jann Graham Glann who directs the Chancel Choir at First Presbyterian Church in Huron. It is always a pleasure to welcome new members to our chapter.

Sincerely,
(signed)
Laura M. Stellhorn, Dean

ALLEN HOME ORGAN FOR SALE

2009-09-27T16:10:00.002-04:00

Robert Seaver has an Allen AP4 (model year 2000) computer chip church organ for sale. It is in excellent condition and would be ideal for someone's home or for use in a small church. Robert lives in the Grafton, Ohio area. His phone number is: 440-355-6835 and his email address is rseaver1@windstream.net.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR SEPTEMBER 2009

2009-09-10T09:50:00.001-04:00

Yes, I am the reason you haven’t received an AGO newsletter the past number of months. It just didn’t have priority on my schedule, and I give you my apologies. However, we are still a viable Chapter in the national American Guild of Organists, and as such are ready to start our 2009-2010 season.

A program committee met Tuesday, September 1 to plan programs of interest and benefit to our members. There is still space for input, and it would be welcome. Your suggestions may be given to any of the officers listed above.

To start the season Henry Kihlken will present his recital at St. John Lutheran Church, Port Clinton, on Sunday, September 27, at 3:00 p.m. A reception will follow. Henry’s recitals are always well planned and well played, so he deserves the support of all our members.

Were you able to enjoy the organ concert on Tuesday, July 7, on the historic Johnson Organ at First Congregational UCC? Christopher Marks gave the concert as part of the annual convention of the national Organ Historical Society, and what a splendid recital it was! Just to be there for that one concert was a privilege. A special word of thanks to our Guild members who helped direct traffic when the seven busses arrived from Cleveland.

Annual dues should now be sent to our Treasurer, Charles Scroggy, at 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky. Regular memberships are $55 plus $15 for local membership; total $70. Special memberships for those over 65 are $37.50 plus the local dues of $15; total $52.50. Partners, second member to the same address, pay only $30 plus the $15 local dues; total $45. Charles would appreciate your sending your check to him promptly so the national office doesn’t haunt him.

The national AGO office informs us we last contributed $50 to the Annual Fund in 2006. “We hope we can count on your renewed support,” writes F. Anthony Thurman, Director of Development and Communications. Can we agree to do that this year?

GOOD NEWS! The Sandusky Concert Association has contracted to bring Anthony and Beard, organ and trumpet, to Zion Lutheran Church, Sandusky, on Sunday, October 25 at 4:00 p.m. (See the Phillip Truckenbrod ad on page 1 of TAO). Ticket prices have yet to be set, but we certainly owe the Concert Association our full support in this endeavor.

Laura M. Stellhorn, Dean

ORGANS IN THE HOOD SERIES

2009-09-10T09:40:00.000-04:00

The series on our Sandusky Chapter web site “Organs in the Hood” will be launched in October. This year, we will be covering organs in Sandusky. We hope to cover a different city every year.

This is basically an attempt for our Sandusky Chapter to document and catalog most (if not all) the organs in our Chapter area. This is a HUGE project that Tim Claubaugh will need your help to undertake. He will call the organists in the area to ask about getting into the church to take pictures of each instrument (inside and out) as well as have the organist write up a short article about the instrument. This information (article and pictures) will be posted on our website; 1 every month.

So when Tim calls, please be willing to help.

SANDUSKY CHAPTER AGO EMAIL ACCOUNT HIJACKED

2009-08-07T17:04:00.003-04:00

FROM THE EDITOR:

If you received the email below, delete it immediately. This is a fraud. I, in no way, shape or form have ever been or am now in the UK.

These people hijacked / hacked into our agosandusky email account (including the password to get into it). I think I have it back (I had to change the password) - time will tell.

Thanks to the several people who contacted me to tell me about this!
If you have any questions, email or call me.

Tim Claubaugh,
Editor

P.S. Does anyone know how much american dollars equals 800 UK Pounds? If so, leave it in the comment section below.

FRAUDULENT EMAIL SENT OUT BY HACKERS / CRIMINALS:

I recently traveled on an invitation for a conference to London UnitedKingdom before the Unfortunate thing happened to me, some armed robbersvisited my room at the hotel where i lodged and robbed me of all the money ibrought , my phone , my return ticket e.t.c , I know it a bit strange for meto have contacted you under this situation and time, believe me because ihave limited access to people and i have chosen you in time of need. I wouldhave call but i also lost my phone during the incident, i don't have anymoney here to eat or even make call ,because i trust and hope that you canhelp me that is why i have decided to contact you.

I cannot get to the person i came here to meet because i lost my phone wherehis phone number were kept ,he does not even know where i am now, I am soconfused right now, I don't know what to do or where to go,I have access toonly emails, No Phone, Pleasecan you loan and send me £800 today so i can return home, As soon as i gethome i would refund it immediately ,you need to help me have it sent throughWestern Union money Transfer because there is no account here, here is thedetails you will need to use in sending it right away please: I am sendingthe details that you will need to send the money in jiffy so that once icome to check the mail you would have sent the money

Name: Tim Claubaugh
Address: 3A Montagu Row, Marylebone, London W1U 6DZ
Amount: £800

I trust that you will be very kind and show mercy to my present ordeal.Help! let me have some relief. Any amount that you send will be refunded.You know my value and worth, i am also making it know to you to keep thematter secret I have ask you to loan me the money because i believe i cancount on you and believing in my heart that i can trust you with my problem.

Write me immediately so that i know when you will have sent it, andimmediately you have sent it , scan and send me the western union moneytransfer receipt or just write out the details on the receipt and send to me. Please keep this to your self only please, this embarrassment is enough..

Tim Claubaugh

SITE UPDATES

2009-08-04T10:30:00.002-04:00

Recent updates were done to the following areas:

1) "This Month in Music History" (and in the sidebar).
2) "Monthly Videos" (and in the sidebar).
3) New article below: "Ideas Needed"
4) New article below: "Chapter Dues"
5) New article below: "OHS Concert Review" by Charles Scroggy.

Remember if you have something that would be of interest for our chapter, contact Tim Claubaugh at agosandusky@yahoo.com .

OHS CONCERT REVIEW

2009-08-04T10:25:00.000-04:00

OHS 54th Annual National Convention
July 5 - 10, 2009, Cleveland
By Charles Scroggy

Although the 2009 OHS Annual National Convention was based in Cleveland, Ohio, convention attendees stopped at First Congregational United Church of Christ, Sandusky, Ohio for an organ recital on Tuesday, July 7 as the group traveled from Cleveland to Toledo.

After a 55-minute delay due to the late arrival of the approximately 385 convention attendees, organist Christopher Marks, assistant professor of organ at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, began his recital by playing Nathan Hale Allen’s Spring Gathering on the church’s 1875 Johnson & Son organ. The swift, pianistic style piece from Dudley Buck’s four-volume anthology entitled Vox Organi featured the Swell Oboe in the opening and closing sections. The unseasonable, summer temperatures in the low 70s and the bright, sunny day of July 7, 2009 were unintentionally interpreted by Marks’ selection.

Spring Gathering was followed by Night: A Meditation written in 1907 by Arthur Foote. The softer stops of the organ, beginning with the Swell Stopped Diapason, Swell Salicional, and the Great Dulciana, were highlighted. After a slight crescendo in the middle section, the piece concluded on the quiet Swell Salicional coupled to the Pedal Bourdon.

An OHS tradition is to sing a hymn at each recital facing the organ. As if on cue, the attendees rose and sang two verses of Now on Land and Sea Descending. Marks added the Pedal Trombone as the final verse began, the Great Mixture IV on the refrain, and the Great Trumpet on the final stanza to combine the organ’s full ensemble with the powerful voices of the mostly male attendees.

A theme and variations on VESPER HYMN, the tune for Now on Land and Sea Descending, was then played. The five variations and five transitions of the piece, composed by Samuel B. Whitney, creatively demonstrated the four, organ pipe families: principles, reeds, flutes, and strings. Although the audience had been instructed prior to the recital to refrain from applause after each selection, the audience offered a well-deserved round of applause after Marks’ pedal solo and coda that used, in Marks’ words, “everything but the kitchen sink.”

The recital then shifted from service music to program music with Scherzino by Horatio Parker (1863-1919) which demonstrated the full range of the Great Melodia. Scherzino was the most obvious pianistic piece of the program, and it had striking resemblances to composers like Chopin rather than most organ music of Horatio Parker’s day.

Marks concluded his recital with Allegro vivace non troppo from the third and final movement of Dudley Buck’s Second Sonata, Op. 77. Full and medium choruses were used throughout the piece until the manuals were coupled near the end after a fiery pedal solo on the Pedal Trombone. Marks wrote that he felt this was an appropriate selection for his recital because of “Buck’s long-standing relationship with the Johnson organ firm.” Only the original Johnson stops “(or their replacements, in the case of the reeds)” were used, according to Marks.

Forty minutes after the recital began, the appreciative audience delivered a standing ovation before they quickly exited the church and walked to board motorcoaches in Zion Lutheran Church’s parking lot for the trip to Toledo. Three additional recitals were scheduled that afternoon and evening in Toledo before the group returned to their hotel in Cleveland.

IDEAS NEEDED

2009-08-04T10:15:00.000-04:00

Our chapter Program committee is looking for ideas for this coming program year. If you have any ideas for any programs this year, please contact Laura Stellhorn at 419-626-0231 or email them to agosandusky@yahoo.com .

Your help and ideas would be GREATLY appreciated!

CHAPTER DUES

2009-08-04T10:12:00.001-04:00

Chapter dues were due for the 2009-2010 year on June 30. Regular - $70.00 / Special - $52.50 (age 65 or over) / Student - $39.00 / Partner - $45.00 (second member of same household. No magazine for second member.) / Chapter Friend - $15.00.

If you have not yet done so, please mail your dues ASAP to Charles Scroggy, 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870.

OHS CONCERT AT CONGREGATIONAL UCC, SANDUSKY

2009-07-08T14:01:00.003-04:00

The Organ Historical Society had one of their week long convention concerts at the Congregational UCC in Sandusky on Tuesday, July 7 at 1:00. There was standing room only in the church with well over 450 people in attendance.

Christopher Marks was the organist and he played the following program:

"Spring Greeting" (1896) - Nathan Hale Allen (1848-1925)

"Night: A Meditation" (1907) - Arthur Foote (1853-1937)

Hymn, "Now, on Land and Sea Descending" - Vesper Hymn

"Vesper Hymn" (1885) - Samuel B. Whitney (1842-1914)

"Scherzino, Op. 66, No. 3" (1910) - Horatio Parker (1863-1919)

"Allegro vivace non troppo" - Dudley Buck (1839-1909)
from Second Sonata, Op. 11 (1877)

Marks choose these pieces because they were all written for instruments of this time period. He holds degrees from the University of Richmond (BM, piano), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (MM, piano and MM, organ), and the Eastman School of Music (DMA, organ), where he studied with Michael Farris. His performances have garnered him top prizes in the Arthur Poister, San Marino, Fort Wayne, and Mader competitions.

Marks taught organ and served as university organist at Syracuse University from 1999-2006. He is now assistant professor of organ at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Marks's recordings for the Raven label, is the first of a projected three-dis set to be devoted to the organ music of Seth Bingham (1882-1972), who was a prominent New York composer and organist.

View the short article as well as pictures and a video on the Sandusky Register online paper here.

A NOTE FROM DETROIT REGIONAL CONVENTION CHAIR

2009-06-11T15:03:00.002-04:00

Friends,

The 2009 Convetnion Steering Committtee has elected to waive the late registration fees!

Highlights of the 2009 Detroit Regional Convention include performances of the finalist submissions for the Marilyn Mason new Organ Music Composition Competition by Lynne Davis, Martin Jean playing the famed Hill Auditorium organ at the University of Michigan, performances by Todd Wilson, Janette Fishell, Fred Hohman, and the Quimby Young Organists competition taking place in the beautiful setting of Christ Church Cranbrook as well as many, varied workshop presentations.

We are only three weeks from the start of the convention, and we need YOU to make plans to attend today!

I encourage you to point your broser to httpp://detroitago.org/images/stories/Regional%202009%20BROCHURE-75.pdf , to print and mail your registration form, and start making plans to motor to the Motor City!

See you in June,
Dr. Joseph D. Daniel
Detroit Regional Convention Chair

CONVENTION HOTEL INFORMATION
Attendees are responsible for their own housing arrangements.

Convetnion Hotel & Exhibits: Detroit Renaissance Center Marriott, Renaissance Center, Detroit. Phone: (313) - 568 - 8000. FAX: (313) - 568 - 8146.
Ask for AGO rage ($129+tax).
Contact Convention Registrar, Elgin Clingaman, eclingaman@aol.com for special needs.

See the Detoit convention web site at www.detroitago.org

RECENT SITE UPDATES

2009-06-09T10:55:00.003-04:00

Recent updates were done to the following areas:

1) Over all look has changed. Do you like it, or hate it? Post your comment below.

2) "This Month in Music History" (in the sidebar).

3) "Upcoming Area Events" (in the sidebar).

4) "Monthly Videos" (in the sidebar).

5) New articles below: "Chapter Dues Due;" "From Our Dean for June 2009;" and "Organs in the Hood."

Remember if you have something that would be of interest for our chapter, contact Tim Claubaugh at agosandusky@yahoo.com .

CHAPTER DUES DUE

2009-06-09T10:53:00.001-04:00

Chapter dues will soon be due for the 2009-2010 year. Regular - $70.00 / Special - $52.50 (age 65 or over) / Student - $39.00 / Partner - $45.00 (second member of same household. No magazine for second member.) / Chapter Friend - $15.00. Please mail your dues no later than JUNE 30 to Charles Scroggy, 218 W. Bogart Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870.

FROM OUR DEAN FOR JUNE 2009

2009-06-09T10:51:00.001-04:00

Greetings to you as another busy season of church music concludes and a slower-paced summer season begins. Here are several things to bring to your attention:

1) Nancy Russell, Ago Ohio District convener, hosted a meeting of Deans at the Bunn-Minnick Pipe Organ Co. in Columbus on May 2, 2009, and sent me a written report. I was not able to attend, but I phoned a Sandusky Chapter report to Nancy. Seven Ohio Deans attended along with two Regional officers. Nancy urged us to support the Annual Fund as a chapter or as individuals. A donation of $3 per member would pay costs of liability insurance. She also encourages us to network with other chapters and build on our strengths.

2) Remember the Organ Historical Society’s national convention coming to Sandusky’s First Congregational UCC on Tuesday, July 7. A public recital will be given at 1:00 p.m. by Christopher Marks. We have promised Charles Scroggy any help he needs in hosting this part of the Convention’s stop in Sandusky.

3) The Sandusky Concert Association has booked an organ-trumpet concert as the opening number on its 2009-2010 series. Anthony and Beard (note their photos in the Phillip Truckenbrod ad in “TAO”) will give the concert Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Sandusky. Tickets will be $15 for adults, and $5 for students. As organists we need to support this concert in every possible way: attend the concert yourself, bring friends, publicize the event, and offer help as needed and requested. This is a fantastic opportunity for organists to invite potential students to attend and consider lessons on the king of instruments.

4) And finally annual AGO dues should be sent to our treasurer Charles Scroggy. See the posting above for prices and when those need to be in. Your dues support the national and local organizations and include your subscription to TAO.

Have a great summer, and I’ll look for you at First Congregational UCC on Tuesday, July 7!
(signed) Laura Stellhorn, Dean

ORGANS IN THE HOOD

2009-06-09T10:49:00.000-04:00

“Organs in the Hood” is a feature on our web site where Sandusky Chapter members take a look at organs throughout the Sandusky Chapter area. These articles include information about each instrument as well as pictures and specification list. This will also be a way for our chapter to “catalog” most (if not all) the organs in our area. Each summer we hope to feature the organs in a different city. The city that we will concentrate on this summer is Sandusky. Tim Claubaugh will be contacting organists in Sandusky to set up times to take pictures and get the specifications of many of the instruments in Sandusky. Then beginning in September, we hope to feature one instrument every month for the entire year.

SUBSTITUTE ORGANIST LIST

2009-05-13T12:32:00.003-04:00

The following area organists are available to sub in area churches:

Laura Stellhorn 419-626-0231
Marlene Longer 419-684-7737
Brian McGookey 419-366-0863 (May-Mid August only)

If you would like to be added to the area sub organist list, contact the editor, Tim Claubaugh at agosandusky@yahoo.com .

FROM OUR DEAN FOR MAY 2009

2009-05-06T15:33:00.001-04:00

Yes, we still have an AGO Chapter in Sandusky; and we want you to know of musical events we can all enjoy in the coming weeks. Click here to see the ones we know about.

This is a quote from the newsletter of the Toledo Chapter AGO: “Music consists of organized sounds and silences. Silences are harder than sounds, and soft is harder than loud, and slow is harder than fast.” I’ll bet you choir directors can agree with Martha Esbin on that one!

Laura Stellhorn, Dean

ORGAN & BRASS CONCERT WRAP UP

2009-04-28T16:57:00.003-04:00

There were about 100 people that attended the Organ & Brass Concert with Organist Tim Claubaugh and the Terra Brass Choir. The Terra Brass Choir consists of 4 Trumpets, 2 French Horns, 2 Trombones, and 2 Tubas all under the direction of Jeff Blanchard.

Below is the program that was performed:

Performed from the balcony:
BRASS: "Toccata from "L Orfeo" - Monteverdi / arr. Leavitt
ORGAN & BRASS: "Praise the Lord With Drums & Cymbals" - Karg-Elert/arr. Brantigan BRASS: "Ave Maria" - Schbuert / arr. Gale

Performed down front:
ORGAN: "Legende" - Louis Vierne
ORGAN & BRASS: "Voluntary in D" - Stanley / arr. Leavitt
ORGAN: "Hornpipe" (From "Water Music") - G. F. Handel BRASS: "Fugue on the Magnificat" - Pachelbel / arr. Dishinger
ORGAN & BRASS: "In Dulci Jubilo" - Praetorius / arr. King
ORGAN: "Fantasy Prelude on an Easter Hymn" - Gilbert Martin
ORGAN & BRASS: "My Spirit Be Joyful" (from Cantata No. 146) - J. S. Bach
ORGAN: "Tuba Tune in D Major" - C. S. Lang
ORGAN & BRASS: "Maestoso" (From "Symphony No. 3") - Saint-Sanes/arr. Gardner

A special thank you to St. Mary's photographer, Craig Rudolph! !
Click on the picture to see it in a larger format.

The church before the concert began.

The first three pieces on the program were played from the balcony

First Row: Thomas Hetzel, Stephanie Lehr, Jackie Macko

Second Row: Rosemary Titkemeier, Travis Magoto

Third Row: Duane Waite, John Waite, Steve Shimer, Barry Cover

Terra Brass Choir Director, Jeff Blanchard, talking to the audience.

The final bows.

ORGAN & BRASS CONCERT

2009-04-15T14:42:00.002-04:00

An "Organ & Brass Concert" will be held at St. Mary's, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky, on Sunday, April 26, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. The brass are the "Terra Brass" from Terra Community College with St. Mary's Organist, Tim Claubaugh. This concert is FREE and open to the public. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend this exciting concert! ! !

For more information, contact Tim Claubaugh at 419-625-7465, ext 18 or email at music@stmarysandusky.org

MONTHLY VIDEOS

2009-04-06T10:25:00.010-04:00

MARCH 2010:
This months video features again the English Boy Choir "Libera." This 5:22 long video is of the Libera Choir singing "Going Home" live at one of their many concerts that they give every year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2aLSat3h0w

FEBRUARY 2010:
This month's video is Fr. Edward Beck on ABC News Now interviewing Joe Simmons and Nancy Meyer. Meyer is a singer and actress and cantor at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Lincoln Center, New York City. Simmons is the “Principal Cantor” at St. John The Baptist Church in New York City and was the cantor at the recent Yankee Stadium Mass with Pope Benedict. Both Meyer and Simmons have recent CD’s out. This video is 6:51 in length.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpNEr1UKBGI

JANUARY 2010:
This months video features the English Boy Choir "Libera." This video contains highlights from the U. S. tour in 2008. It shows the boys being boys as well as showing their "angelic" side while performing. The video also shows short clips of some of their concerts including the Pre-Mass concert at Yankee Stadium when Pope Benedict was there. With their musical talent, Libera is a group of very gifted boys. The video is 6:31.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8UITvUW_VQ

DECEMBER 2009:
With Christmas coming upon us, a version of "O Come, All Ye Faithful" is in order. And who best to play this wonderful Christmas Carol than the famous Virgil Fox in concert, complete with audience participation! ! ! This video is 5:51 in length.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hwJubxie88&NR=1

NOVEMBER 2009:
This weeks organ clip is another Virgil Fox clip. In this clip, he is playing the “National Anthem” and parts of it he plays only with his feet.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ocgQ-00deI

SEPTEMBER 2009:
With the National Holiday, Labor Day being this month, we have another Virgil Fox video of Fox playing the "National Anthem" and parts of it he plays only with his feet! ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ocgQ-00deI

AUGUST 2009:
THE WEATHER CHANTED (2:57)
Perhaps if the weather was reported like this on the evening news, we would pay closer attention.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z2jwDcb9wI

Good Anglican chant is hard to find!

JULY 2009:
LIBERA (5:30):
The group is comprised of about 15 boys from all over London, England. Their ages are six to sixteen. They toured the US back when Pope Benedict XVI celebrated Mass at Yankee Stadium (April 2008). They are an amazing choir with rich, pure, and yet haunting voices.
Check this link out the link:
http://www.libera.org.uk/video/wvx/newdawnepk_b.wvx

A colleague of mine said it so well when he wrote,
“It really angers me that in our American culture we place so much emphasis on sports and by their audacity of questioning their masculinity, heap ridicule on innocent children when they sing to their hearts’ desire, sometimes destroying that innocence forever….for what gain? State championships, all-league, all-state honors are really only temporary and fleeting. And THAT is supposed to teach our young people about life?

These kids raise the beauty of the human voice to the highest level of musical art. I have been blessed to hear the Moscow Boys Choir, the Vienna Boys Choir, the Texas Boys Choir, the Pittsburgh Children’s Choir and now Libera (although not in person, yet!).

Through these childrens’ voices, they have soared and touched the wings of angels and have shared their God given talents for the nurturing of our spirits and the edification of our souls. In their simplicity, by sharing their art, they….have allowed us… a glimpse of the Sacred Artist…..”

JUNE 2009:
This months organ video clip is a “Funny.” In this video, the organist supposedly has at their disposal a 128’ stop (complete with a “danger” sign) which he draws on and then the video shows you the consequence of drawing this stop on and how it effects an entire city! ! ! VERY funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Wpn7xyzUqg&feature=related

MAY 2009:
This months organ clips are from the famous Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Utah. This building is considered by many to be the most acoustically perfect building in the world. It recently underwent a massive multi-million dollar renovation. This huge pipe organ has grown in size over the years. The last additions were done in the 1950’s.

The Renovation of the LDS (Mormon) Salt Lake Tabernacle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akgRN6ITYyw&feature=related

Mormon Tabernacle Choir Celebrates Re-opening of Tabernacle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-AlNVGzdr4&feature=related

APRIL 2009:
This month's organ video clip is again on the largest pipe organ in the world at the Atlantic City, New Jersey Convention / Auditorium also known as the “Boardwalk Hall.” The organ is a 449 Rank Midmer-losh, Op. 5550 with 2 consoles. The first console has 5 manuals (keyboards) and the second console has 7 manuals.

The Auditorium Organ
Loading...
Recording date & location
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SItAmyEByE&feature=related

Boardwalk Hall Midmer Losh Atlantic City
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2mWgrz98Z8&feature=related

MARCH 2009:
The largest pipe organ in the world at the Atlantic City, New Jersey Convention / Auditorium also known as the “Boardwalk Hall.” The first video (2 minutes, 5 seconds) is a little intro to the hall itself: it’s history and the $90 million renovation / restoration project that it has undergone. The second video (1 minute, 54 seconds long) is a summary of this massive instrument which is currently under a multi-million dollar restoration project. It is a 449 Rank Midmer-losh, Op. 5550 with 2 consoles. The first console has 5 manuals (keyboards) and the second console has 7 manuals. Next month's video will go into a little more detail about the organ itself.
Boardwalk Hall - Atlantic City Tour:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1y7PNUeQmx0&NR=1
The Senator's Masterpiece (trailer):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHJ-ral_IVM&feature=related

FEBRUARY 2009:
Virgil Fox playing “Perpetual Motion” by Middelschultehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbGCriVk9UM&feature=related

ST. MARY'S MUSIC MINISTRY NEW WEB SITE

2009-03-23T14:06:00.003-04:00

Sandusky St. Mary's Church has a new Music Ministry website. It can be viewed at http://stmarysmusicministry.blogspot.com/.

The parish website is http://www.stmarysandusky.org/

If your church has a Music or Music Ministry web site, contact the editor (Tim Claubaugh) at agosandusky@yahoo.com and we will write a brief article about it and post it in the side bar.

THIS MONTH IN MUSIC HISTORY

2009-03-23T10:41:00.017-04:00

MARCH

01, 1620 – Thomas Campion, poet & composer died.

02, 1714 – J. S. Bach, while serving as organist in Weimar, is given the new title of “Konzertmeister” with the duty of composing a cantata every month.

02, 1824 – Bedrich Smetana was born in Litomyschl.

03, 1875 – Premiere of Bizet’s “Carmen” at the Opera-Comique in Paris.

04, 1678 – Antonio Vivaldi was born in Venice.

04, 1703 – J. S. Bach is appointed court violinist at Weimar, but serves only through July before accepting the organist post at Arnstadt.

05, 1953 – Serge Prokofiev died; the same day the Joseph Stalin died.

06, 1853 – Premiere of Verdi’s “La Traviata” in Venice.

06, 1932 – John Philip Sousa died.

07, 1875 – Maurice Ravel was born in Cliboure.

07, 1896 – Priemere of Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Grand Duke.”

08, 1714 – Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach is baptized in Weimar. Georg Philpp Teleman is
godfather.

08, 1869 – Hector Berlioz died.

09, 1842 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Nabacco” at La Scala.

09, 1844 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Ernani” in Venice.

10, 1749 – Lorenzo Da Ponte, Mozart’s great librettist, was born near Venice.

11, 1829 – Mendelssohn led J. S. Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion” in Berlin. The works
first performance since Bach’s death in 79 years.

11, 1851 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Rigoletto” in Venice.

11, 1867 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Don Carlo” in Paris.

12, 1710 – Thomas Arne born in London.

12, 1857 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Sinon Baccanegra” in Venice.

13, 1797 – Premiere of Cherubini’s “Medea” in Paris.

13, 1860 – Hugo Wolf was born in Slovenigrade, Yugoslavia.

14, 1681 – George Philipp Telemann was born in Magdeburg.

14, 1804 – Johann Strauss, Sr. was born in Vienna.

14, 1847 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Macbeth” in Florence.

15, 1700 – Due to the lack of funds, the 15-year old J. S. Bach leaves school at Ohrfruf to become a chorister at Lueneburg.

15, 1842 – Leiugi Cherubini died.

15, 1956 – Premiere of “My Fair Lady” in New York.

16, 1736 – Giovanni Battesta Pergolesi died.

16, 1881 – Modest Mussorgsky died.

17, 1846 – Premiere of Verdi’s “Attila” in Venice.

18, 1731 – Baptisim of Christiana Dorothea, J. S. Bach’s 15th child, in Leipzig.

18, 1844 – Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov was born in Likhoin.

19, 1859 – Premiere of Gounods “Faust” in Paris.

19, 1873 – Max Reger was born in Brand, Bavaria.

20, 1890 – Beniamino Gigli, Italian tenor was born in Recanati.

21, 1685 – Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Eisenach. He was named after godfathers
Johann Georg Koch and Sebastian Nagel.

21, 1829 – Modest Mussorgsky was born in Karedo.

22, 1687 – Jean Baptiste Lully died in Paris

23, 1729 – Premiere of J. S. Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion” in Leipzig.

23, 1731 – Premiere of J. S. Bach’s “St. Mark Passion” (BWV 247) in Leipzig.

24, 1721 – Bach dedicates his “Six Brandenburg Concertos” to the Margrave of
Brandenburg in Coethen.

24, 1916 – Enrique Granados died when his ship was torpedoed in the English Channel.

25, 1875 – Premiere of Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Trial by Jury.”

25, 1881 – Bela Bartok was born in Nagy Szent Miklos.

25, 1918 – Claude Debussy died.

26, 1730 – Premiere of J. S. Bach’s motet “Come, Jesus, Come” in Leipzig.

26, 1827 – Ludwig Van Beethoven died during a thunderstorm in Vienna.

27, 1723 – Premiere of J. S. Bach’s “St. John Passion” in Leipzig.

27, 1859 – Vincent D’lndy was born in Paris.

28, 1896 – Premiere of Gindano’s “Andrea Chenier” in La Scala.

28, 1903 – Rudolf Serkin was born in Eger, Bohemia.

28, 1942 – Sergi Rachmaninoff died.

29, 1839 – Premiere of Schubert’s 9th Symphony, conducted by Mendelssohn in Leipzig.

29, 1906 – English Organist E. Power Biggs born at Westcliff-on-Sea England.

30, 1729 – J. S. Bach takes over the duties of director fo the University’s “Collegium Musicum,” in Leipzig.

30, 1982 – Karl Orff died.

31, 1732 – Franz Joseph Haydn was born in the village of Rohrau, Austria.

If you have an event to add to this month or any month during the year, contact Tim Claubaugh, editor at agosandusky@yahoo.com.

MUSICIANS AVAILABLE

2009-03-18T16:18:00.003-04:00

Below is a list of musicians that are available either for a permanent position or to sub.

David Howat, 6056 Liberty AveVermilion, OH. 44089-1040, Home phone: 440-967-8716; Cell Phone 440-396-8185; email: dhowat@ashland.edu . Looking to play (organ or piano) Saturday afternoon or evening service / Mass.

ORGANIST NEEDED FOR CONCERT SERIES

2009-03-17T10:38:00.000-04:00

The Don Glasgow Organ Series in the Opera House in Fayette, Ohio is looking for someone to perform at one of their series organ concerts on Sunday, December 13, 2009. The opera house has a 3mp Mason & Hamlin reed organ, an Alexandre harmonium, another American reed organ and a Yamaha grand piano.

There would be a stipened for this. For more information contact Larry Claus email at behsstlc@cros.net or phone at 419-577-6071.

ST MARY'S CHOIR SPRING CONCERT DATE CHANGED

2009-03-16T14:20:00.003-04:00

The 27th Annual St. Mary's Spring Concert date has been changed from Sunday, May 17 to Saturday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. This concert will be dedicated to St. Mary's pastor, Fr. Philip Feltman who will be retiring on June 30, 2009. The concert will feature the Children's Choir, Contemporary Choir and the Parish Choir. For more information, contact Tim Claubaugh at 419-625-7465, Ext. 18 or at music@stmarysandusky.org .

FROM OUR DEAN

2009-03-09T14:12:00.001-04:00

Several members of our Sandusky Chapter met recently to talk about the future of our group. We realize we are failing to attract members to monthly programs that end up poorly attended and of limited interest or benefit. Yet we want to remain a viable Chapter in the national organization and have offered fine programs to the community, for example: the Schweitzer / Bach program in March 2007 and the October 2008 Organ Spectacular recitals. How should we plan for the future?

First of all, please answer the few questions prepared by James Gardner enclosed with this letter to give us YOUR thoughts and input. For the immediate future we will continue to keep in touch with newsletters, listing the many musical events scheduled in our area. If your church has a special musical event planned, let us know so we can help with publicity. As opportunities present themselves, we will sponsor major programs to share with our members and the community. Of course, we are looking for new members to be part of this world’s largest organization of musicians serving 20,000 members in more than 300 Chapters throughout the United States and abroad. You should know that Tim Claubaugh has opened a web site for our Sandusky Chapter. Check it out at http://agosandusky.blogspot.com/ . Thanks Tim for your interest, skills, and initiative in this project.
-Laura Stellhorn, Dean

QUESTIONNAIRE

2009-03-09T13:58:00.003-04:00

Dear Chapter Members,

In an effort to plan the most interesting, educational and entertaining programs for the next program year, we are asking your help. Please complete this questionnaire and return it to our dean Laura Stellhorn. We all agree that better attendance at Chapter events is a sure way to help sell ourselves to prospective members. So, please take a few minutes to express your views and mail or deliver your copy to Laura at 113 E. Jefferson St., Sandusky, OH 44870. To print out a copy of this questionnaire, just click on the article title ("Questionnaire") then you should be able to print just this article / questionnaire rather than the entire web page. Or you can request an email copy from agosandusky@yahoo.com .

1. Here is a list of some of our most recent successful programs:
a. Progressive organ recitals in Danbury/Marblehead, Port Clinton, Norwalk,
Huron and Sandusky.
b. Organ crawls at rural churches east and south of Bellevue, the Frohman/Weeks Mansion and Jackson Jr. High School
c. Attending the Oberlin Conservatory organ student’s concert for the Lorain County AGO Chapter and dining with that Chapter and student recitalists afterwards.
d. Pedals, Pipes, and Pizza event for young musicians – hoping to awaken their interest in the organ.
e. Concerts/Programs for the community such as the Aaron David Miller recital and the Albert Schweitzer / J. S. Bach program – both very well attended.
f. Recitals by Henry Kihlken and concerts by the St. Mary’s Parish Choir under the direction of Tim Claubaugh.

2. In the space provided, please comment if you might like to see any of these programs repeated or reincarnated in other forms.

3. Have you attended any programs, recitals or meetings during the last two years?

4. If you have not attended meetings and care to share your reasons, please do.

5. Some ideas for other kinds of programs include a hymn sing or festival, a choral or organ music workshop, and demos of music for organ and instruments. Please comment on any of these that interest you and list other ideas you may have.

6. Are you interested in having social events such as a dinner or picnic once or twice a year? Other ideas for socials?

7. Please give us the names of prospective members. They may be organists, choir directors and/or persons interested in organs or church music. If you can include an address and something about the person it will be helpful.

8. Signing your name is optional, however, we are hoping for 100% participation in completing and returning the questionnaire.

- Jim Gardner

A FUNNY

2009-03-09T13:55:00.001-04:00

What is an organists favorite ballet?
Posaune Lake

What did the organ teacher say to the organ student who was trying to play "Dieu Parmi Nous" instead of his lesson plans?
Stop Messiaen around!

Why is a person who plays a pipe organ like a baby?"
"Because they play with their feet!

What do you call a short headmaster?
A 4-foot principal.

How does an organist change his/her old fashioned underclothing?
With a "combination" piston!

What do the Germans call keys packed in a container whose volume is similar to a quart?
Manualliter.

Why is the pipe organ more moral than a grand piano?
Because it's principals are more upstanding!

Why is it more permissible to play risqué music on a grand piano?
Because the studio consoles are more upright!

TRINITY LUTHERAN SEMINARY SUMMER TERM

2009-03-04T14:45:00.004-05:00

Former Sanduskian, May Schwarz, sent information for the 2009 Summer Term at Trinity Lutheran Seminary (Bexley Hall Seminary) in Columbus, Ohio.

There is a three week run of courses June 1-19, or three separate one week courses: June 1-5, June 8-12, and June 15-19. All courses run Monday thru Friday with daily worship at 10:45.

For a Acrobat Reader (PDF) file, contact the editor at agosandusky@yahoo.com and one will be sent to you, or mail your request to Tim Claubaugh, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky, Ohio and a copy will be sent to you by snail mail.

For more information on the courses vist their summer courses web page:
http://www.trinitylutheranseminary.edu/Academics/Calendar.asp and click on "Register now for Summer Courses" and "2009 Summer Music Courses."

For more information on Trinity Lutheran Seminary, visit their web site at http://www.trinitylutheranseminary.edu/

APRIL PROGRAM

2009-03-03T15:55:00.004-05:00

Our April program will be with the AGO Lorain County Chapter on Sunday, April 26, 4:00 p.m. This program will be their annual Oberlin Student Organ Recital at Oberlin College's Finney Chapel. The recital is free and open to the public. Dinner to follow at the Oberlin Inn (Menu and price will be posted soon). Dinner reservations should be made to Tim Claubaugh (419-625-7465, ext. 18 or at agosandusky@yahoo.com ) no later than Wednesday, April 15.

Also of interest that day is the Organ & Brass concert at St. Mary's Church at 7:30 p.m. For more information see the article below "Upcoming Area Events" or here: http://agosandusky.blogspot.com/2009/02/upcoming-area-events.html

SEASONAL HYMNS

2009-02-26T10:10:00.003-05:00

There are MANY excellent hymns for the Lent season. "What Wondrous Love is This" has been around for a long time. The text was written by Alexander Means (1801-1853) and is written in 12 9 12 12 9 meter. The tune (WONDROUS LOVE) comes from the 1835 edition of "Southern Harmony." This hymn has been part of the great American Hymnody for well over 100 years.

1. What wondrous love is this, o my soul, o my soul?
What wondrous love is this, o my soul?
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul;
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul?

2. To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb who is the great I Am,
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.

3. And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing on;
And when from death I'm free, I'll sing and joyful be,
And through eternity I'll sing on, I'll sing on!
And through eternity, I'll sing on.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

2009-02-26T10:05:00.002-05:00

Currently, we are not aware of any open positions in any area churches. If you know of a church that is looking for an organist, pianist, or choral director, contact the editor at agosandusky@yahoo.com .

HELPFUL HINTS FOR POSTING A COMMENT

2009-02-24T10:08:00.004-05:00

To post a comment, the first few steps are pretty obvious, but steps 4 & 5 below will be helpful to know: 1) Click on "comments" under the article that you want to leave a post; 2) Write your comment in the "Leave your Comment" box; 3) Fill in the "Word Verification" box; 4) Under "Choose and Identity," click on "Name/URL;" 5) fill in your name in the "Name" box. We hope that you would list your name, although that is not required. If you wish to remain anonymous, just type in "anon" or "anonymous;" 6) Click on "Publish Your Comment," and PRESTO, your comment is published!

If you have problems posting any comments, contact the editor at agosandusky@yahoo.com .

WHAT ARE YOU DOING DIFFERENTLY THIS LENT?

2009-02-24T09:02:00.006-05:00

Lent is here and we as church musicians tend to do some things differently than we do the rest of the year in our churches. Post a comment below and let us know what you and your church are doing that is different this Lent whether it is with your hymnody, choral music, decorations, something within the Liturgy itself, organ music, or even organ registration. Whatever it is, click on the comment link below and share it with us.

WANT SOMETHING POSTED?

2009-02-22T13:18:00.006-05:00

If you want something posted, simply contact the editor at: agosandusky@yahoo.com and say what you would like posted on our web / blog.

The editor is always looking for things to post here, so send us what you would like to have posted.

UPCOMING AREA EVENTS

2009-02-20T13:59:00.023-05:00

**Sunday, Septmber 27 at 3:00 p.m. Henry Kihlken will give his annual organ recital at St. John Lutheran Church 207 Adams St., Port Clinton, OH. The concert is free and open to the public. Call 419-734-5548 for more information.

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**Sunday, October 25 at 4:00 p.m. Organ and Trumpet (Anthony & Beard) Concert at Zion Lutheran Church, 503 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. This concert has been booked by the Sandusky Concert Association. Tickets: $15 Adults / $5 Students.

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Sunday, November 1, 1:30 pm, Organ and Brass concert at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, 510 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. The concert will feature John Franks on organ with the Boradale Brass. They will perform music of J. S. Bach, Benedetto Marcello, Samuel Barber and others. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

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Sunday, November 8, at 7:30 pm. Organ and Brass Concert at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. Performers will be Tim Claubaugh, Organist, and the Terra State College Brass Choir. Works by J. S. Bach, William Walton, Andre Campra, Giovanni Gabrieli, Vaclav Nelhybel, Wilbur Held, and others will be performed. The concert is FREE and open to the public.

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**The Sandusky Chapter of the American Guild of Organists is celebrating the 325th birthday of Johann Sebastian Bach on Sunday, March 21, 2010 with a "Church Walk" type concert at 3 local churches. People may either walk or drive from church to church. First Congregational is one block from Emmanuel, and Sts. Peter and Paul is across the street from First Congregational. All five organists will perform organ works of J. S. Bach

The event begins at 3:00 at Emmanuel United Church of Christ, 334 Columbus Ave. Organists Jim Gardner and Henry Kihlken will perform.

At about 3:20 everyone will move to First Congregational UCC, 431 Columbus Ave., where organists Charles Scroggy and Randy Ruthsatz will perform.

At about 3:50, everyone will move to Sts. Peter and Paul, 510 Columbus Ave., where organist Tim Claubaugh will perform. A reception will follow afterwards in the gathering room at Sts. Peter & Paul.

This event is free and open to the public.

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Sunday, April 18, 3:00 p.m., Sandusky Choral Society; Grace Episcopal Church; 315 Wayne St., Sandusky. Admission charge.

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Sunday, April 18, 7:30 p.m., Organ and Brass Concert; Tim Claubaugh, Organist and the Terra Brass Choir; St. Mary’s Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. FREE ADMISSION.

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Sunday, May 8, 7:30 p.m., Firelands Chorus; Zion Lutheran Church, 503 Columbus Ave., Sandusky. Admission charge.

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Sunday, May 16, 7:30 p.m., Annual Spring Concert; St. Mary’s Parish Choir, Tim Claubaugh, Organist / Director; St. Mary’s Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. FREE ADMISSION.

**=AGO events.

If you have an event that you would like posted, contact the editor at agosandusky@yahoo.com .
We would like to post events that are happening in your church or other noteworthy concerts around the area.

NEW WEB SITE FOR SANDUSKY CHAPTER

2009-02-18T19:29:00.003-05:00

This is a new web / blog site for the Sandusky Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. We hope to eventually have our newsletters posted here as well as pictures and websites of interest.

We hope you check back often.